Herndon-Reston FISH (Friendly Instant Sympathetic Help), Inc., announces its contract with the Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport Hotel, 2200 Centreville Road, Herndon, for the next FISH Fling Gala and Fund-raiser, scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2009. FISH invites sponsorships for this event, which will celebrate the 40th anniversary of FISH, and encourages the community to save the date on their calendars.

The majority of Herndon-Reston FISH clients are the working poor and the working middle class, who are able to make ends meet until an event occurs to cause a financial crisis — such as an illness or job loss. The rise in foreclosures, food prices, and gasoline prices has resulted in the need for FISH volunteers to raise more funds to meet the needs of more people.

FISH receives revenues for its Family Assistance Program from The Bargain Loft (thrift shop in Herndon), grants, churches, corporations, individual donors, and the annual FISH Fling.

FISH will be working throughout the year to attract donors and sponsors for the 40th Anniversary of FISH. Local businesses are encouraged to become sponsors of Herndon-Reston FISH, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) organization, while developing their budgets this fiscal year. For more information, visit www.HerndonRestonFISH.org. Donations may be made to FISH at 336 Victory Drive, Herndon, VA 20170, or contact President Marcia Di Trapani at 703-391-0105 or email hrfish@gmail.com.